Katil is a religious place known to the people of Karnataka as the abode of the mother goddess Durga Parameshwari. The sacred temple of the goddess in Katil lies on the banks of the river Nandini. People come here from far away places in search of peace and prosperity. They firmly believe that Mata Parameshwari will save them from all the adversities in life and bless them with eternal peace and happiness.
Whenever you go to Katil in Karnataka you will have to get into the sanctum through the Dwajasthamba Mandapa. You will first have to worship the silver-covered flag mast. Then you can proceed to the sanctum of Devi Durga. The deity worshiped here is a Swayambu Linga (self-manifested), covered with gold.
When you will enter the sanctum of Katil you will find the awe-inspiring image of the Goddess in sitting posture with Shanka and Chakra in her two upper hands and showing Abhaya and Varadamudra with her two lower hands.
It is a ritual in the temple in Katil to perform Abhisheka to the Goddess with tender coconut water. The devotees believe that this coconut water will cool down the Devi who had been in a fierce mood after killing Arunasura.
- Devotees go to the temple of Katil of Karnataka especially on Fridays and during Navaratri festival. Annadaana (offering of food) is the principal vow that the people perform in this shrine. This offering takes place every day.
- Tulaabhaaram (weighing oneself against various items) is also done by devotees in the temple .
- Yakshaghana is also performed by some of the devotees going to the temple of Katil in Karnataka.
